In Year 1 we aim to be able to work independently on a sheet of maths sums and to tackle concepts such as halves and doubles, odd and even numbers, adding three small numbers and starting on 'tens and units'. We look at the Stone Age in History lessons and maps and the rain forests in Geography. Music lessons cover singing, music appreciation, use of percussion instruments as well as some theory and composition. French at this stage is mainly oral.

There is still time for Design Technology and Art, in which themes are taken from History and Geography. For example, we have made a model of Stonehenge. We learn to swim on Wednesday mornings at the Kingfisher swimmimg pool in Kingston and have weekly sports lessons. Time is also devoted to Social Studies and Religious Studies, when we look at different religions of the world. We have an assembly three times a week.

Homework is given every evening at this stage. The idea is to reinforce classroom learning and introduce both the routine and discipline of independent study while the work is at a relatively easy level and can be finished within ten minutes. We also join up our writing, regularly write 'news' and make a start on story writing.

Emphasis is placed on building confidence in all the children. Happy, well-behaved children are eager to learn and keen to participate. We change our Form Captain every few weeks; giving at least six children a year the honour. Other sought after jobs, such as Register and Milk Monitors, are also routinely allocated. Stickers, gold stars and certificates are awarded in recognition of effort, achievement, kindness and helpfulness.

Rose Clay
Form Teacher